• Introduction

In ADVMoto Live! #23, host Carl Parker chats with two of the most passionate Yamaha TW200 riders around — Rodney Wills of the Yamaha TDub Club and Wes Mathias (aka TDubsKid). Together, they explore the enduring appeal of the fat-tire TW200 — one of the longest-running and most unique dual-sport motorcycles still in production today. From wrenching and customizing to building community, this episode celebrates the simple joy of riding and why this “little tank on two wheels” continues to win hearts worldwide.

• Episode Summary

Carl, Rod, and Wes dive deep into what makes the TW200 a cult favorite among adventure riders, beginners, and collectors alike. Despite its modest 196cc engine and old-school styling, the TW200 has built an incredibly loyal community — a family of riders who value simplicity, versatility, and fun over flash and horsepower. The guests share how they discovered the bike, why its design hasn’t changed since 1987, and what keeps its fanbase growing after nearly four decades.

• Grassroots Origins: Rodney’s Yamaha TDub Club started as a small local group and grew into a worldwide online community with over 11,000 members celebrating the TW lifestyle.
• Wes’s Story: Creator of the popular TDubsKid YouTube channel, Wes began posting repair and ride videos to help new riders — eventually becoming one of the community’s most trusted resources.
• Why It Works: Low seat height, fat tires, easy maintenance, and reliability make the TW200 ideal for beginners and experienced adventurers alike.
• Community Spirit: The TW200 community emphasizes inclusion and mentorship — where every rider, no matter their skill level, can feel welcome.
• Customization and Mods: From handguards and racks to suspension upgrades, the TW is endlessly adaptable for camping, exploring, and trail riding.

As Rodney puts it: “This is the only bike you can’t have an ego on. You just ride it, laugh, and enjoy the day.” Their enthusiasm proves that sometimes the most meaningful rides come on the humblest machines.

• Highlighted Quotes

“It’s the only bike you can’t have an ego on — you just ride and laugh.” — Rodney Wills

“I started making TW200 videos because no one else was — and the community just exploded.” — Wes Mathias (TDubsKid)

“Simplicity, reliability, and cost — that’s the magic of the TW200.” — Rodney Wills

“You don’t need the newest bike. You just need the right attitude.” — Carl Parker

• Support & Follow-Up

Learn more about the Yamaha TDub community at TDubClub.com and follow Wes’s builds and rides at @TDubsKid on YouTube. For more adventure riding stories, reviews, and live shows, visit AdventureMotorcycle.com.

• About ADVMoto Live!

ADVMoto Live! is an original adventure and dual-sport podcast for riders who live and breathe the long way around. Hosted by Carl Parker, the show features explorers, builders, and dreamers whose stories inspire and define the adventure motorcycling community.